I work as a Health Care Provider, though I don’t care to even share which field I work in.
That’s unimportant.
I could be a Physical Therapist’s Assistant. I could be a Nurse or work in any other licensed medical occupation.
I’m not saying. But I am licensed and that’s all I;’m willing to share.
My name is pseudonymous, of course.
By now, I’m sure you were wondering.
Anyway…
I have to say this: Don’t let your health care provider talk down to you.
Ever.
That goes for men, as well as women.
Your health care provider should be professional and respectful at all times.
Of course, anyone can have a bad day. That’s understandable.
And, sometimes we sense something is off, but it’s not even about us.
Your doctor or nurse could have just gotten a call from their spouse that their twelve-year-old son was just suspended for selling candy at school, and their office administrator just complained that the paperwork is piling up.
And, whatever else. Just a challenging day.
I’m not talking about those instances; I mean the times when we are repeatedly treated in a manner which makes us feel uncomfortable.
That is not acceptable. Of course, if you’re expectations are realistic, then that’s only fair to your doctor or postnatal massage therapist or home health aide.
No one is perfect, and no one is always in a good mood.
But we shouldn’t be mocked for asking questions.
And, out feedback is valuable.
If a health care professional talks down to you, how can they appreciate the vital data they’re receiving, in terms of ongoing treatment or even diagnosis?
It’s impossible.
They are not being good scientists.
Let’s be realistic.
Sometimes people get heady.
It can even happen to a PTA. Why?
You might think they’re at the lower end of the medical totem pole, but does that matter?
Because they’re working and making a living, have a new Toyota out back, and can support a family. That’s why.
They’re proud to be a member of the health care team, and successful members of society, but really, pride and smug attitudes have no place in the medical setting, ever.
Knowing how vital one is should motivate them to help others. That’s enough.
Doctors who ridicule you when you speak aren’t fulfilling their end of the bargain.
Address it!
Have a witness. Record it in your state if it’s legal.
Then, dump your doc if she treats you terribly again.
Or, just move on.
Either way, there’s no need to “tell them off” or “have a confrontation,” though there are plenty of sites where you can review your experiences with a medical professional, like Health Grades.
There are so many other nutritionists out there, you’ll hardly miss the shaming condescension of your nutritionist when she frowns, shakes her head, and proceeds to attempt to give you a guilt complex.
The hell with that!
If they can’t be respectful, and encountering them brings you stress, find someone else.
What if you can’t simply change who you’re working with? If you’re living in a hospice or retirement home, you may need to speak to a manager or director.
It’s not healthy being treated in a manner that’s inconsistent with proper health care demeanor.
Don’t tolerate any BS!